Cheesy Marsala Chicken Bake

Indulge in this delicious Cheesy Marsala Chicken Bake, featuring tender chicken breasts, a rich marsala sauce, and a golden cheesy topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Ingredients

• 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup butter (divided)
• 1/2 cup flour
• 8 oz sliced mushrooms
• 3/4 cup marsala wine
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring frequently, until they begin to brown. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
2. Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise. Flatten each piece between two sheets of waxed paper or plastic wrap using a meat mallet to about ¼-inch thickness. Dredge each flattened piece in the flour.
3. In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of butter and heat over medium-high heat. Add 2 pieces of chicken and brown well on all sides. Remove and set aside. Repeat this process for the remaining chicken, adding 1 tablespoon of butter each time. Do not drain the drippings.
4. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease a 13x9-inch baking pan. Arrange the browned chicken breasts in the pan, overlapping slightly, and sprinkle the mushrooms evenly on top.
5. In the same pan with the drippings, add the marsala wine, chicken stock, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken.
6. Mix the mozzarella, parmesan, and green onions together, then sprinkle over the top of the chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and just starting to brown. Serve hot, preferably with pasta.

Nutritional Information

Nutrition information is not available at this time.

Understanding Marsala Wine

Marsala wine is a key ingredient in this recipe, lending a unique flavor profile that elevates the dish. Originating from Sicily, Marsala is a fortified wine that comes in both dry and sweet varieties. For this recipe, it s recommended to use dry Marsala, as it balances the richness of the sauce and the cheeses. The wine s deep, complex flavors, with notes of caramel and vanilla, meld beautifully with the sautéed mushrooms and chicken, creating a savory symphony that is truly irresistible. When cooking with wine, remember that the alcohol will evaporate during the simmering process, leaving behind its distinctive flavor without the sharpness of raw alcohol.

Choosing the Right Cheese

The cheese blend in this Cheesy Marsala Chicken Bake is integral to its appeal. Mozzarella provides a gooey, melty texture that many love, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall richness of the dish. You can experiment with other cheese varieties such as provolone or gouda for a different flavor dimension. When mixing cheeses, a good rule of thumb is to combine a melting cheese (like mozzarella) with a flavor-packed cheese (like Parmesan). This combination not only adds depth to the dish but also creates a visually appealing golden crust that draws everyone to the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can absolutely use boneless skinless chicken thighs. They are more flavorful and tend to be juicier than chicken breasts, making them a great alternative.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Certainly! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging the chicken. Just ensure that your chicken stock is also gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

Practical Cooking Tips and Tricks

When it comes to preparing the Cheesy Marsala Chicken Bake, a few handy tips can make a world of difference. First, ensure your chicken breasts are even in thickness for uniform cooking. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken to about a quarter-inch thickness; this not only helps in cooking evenly but also tenderizes the meat, making it succulent and delicious.

While sautéing the mushrooms, don t overcrowd the pan. If you add too many at once, they will steam instead of brown, which can impact the flavor. Instead, cook them in batches if necessary. Also, remember to scrape up the brown bits from the bottom of the pan after browning the chicken; these bits are packed with flavor and will enhance your sauce significantly.

Lastly, when mixing the cheeses, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or Italian herbs to the mix for an extra layer of flavor. This little addition can elevate your dish from good to extraordinary. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor the delightful flavors of this Cheesy Marsala Chicken Bake!